a new survey from thomson- reuters and the university of michigan shows the consumer sentiment index rose to 79.2 this month. that's the highest level in four months. those surveyed said they are upbeat about their personal finances, and most believe the unemployment will not rise further. also today, the commerce department reported retail sales jumped 0.9% in august. that's the largest increase since february. the gains come as consumers are spending more on cars and gasoline. the report showed that sales at different retailers were mixed and suggested only a modest increase in consumer spending this quarter. today's news comes just a day after the federal reserve stepped in once again to revive the economy, and ben bernanke's promise to help main street. how will main street americans do under q.e.3? joining us to answer that, robert brusca, chief economist at his own firm, fact and opinion economics. hi, bob. >> hi, susie. >> susan: all right, so, chairman bernanke says this latest round of stimulus is a-- to quote his words-- a main street policy. is it really? >> well, i think